Brazilian pine
araucaria angustifolia
Also known as: ["Parana pine","Araucaria pine"]
Overview
A tall, evergreen conifer native to Brazil, known for its distinctive symmetrical crown and edible seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Genus: | Araucaria |
| Botanical Name: | Araucaria angustifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C, tolerates brief frosts down to -5°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor conditions, rarely required outdoors
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix or sandy loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after significant growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (down to 50°F or 10°C) are acceptable in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to encourage deep root growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage foliage and slow growth.
Solution: Move plant away from drafty windows or doors; provide a protective cover during cold spells; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat above 85°F (29°C) can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Araucaria angustifolia seeds and nuts, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. The toxic compounds affect the digestive and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Araucaria angustifolia seeds and nuts by dogs can lead to toxicosis, characterized by gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects. The toxic compounds disrupt normal cellular functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAraucaria angustifolia seeds and nuts contain toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress when ingested. These compounds interfere with normal metabolic processes, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Araucaria angustifolia suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Are the seeds of Araucaria angustifolia edible?
A: Yes, the seeds are edible and are a traditional food source in Brazil.
Q: How tall does Araucaria angustifolia grow?
A: It can grow up to 40 meters (130 feet) tall in its natural habitat.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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